1. Etiole de Timberley, CREMANT DE BORDEAUX (12.5%), £10
Available from M&S / Ocado
Produced by the traditional champagne method. Floral aromas, red apples, brioche. Very drinkable, less fizz but more body than a Prosecco. Excellent value
Food matches: a very versatile wine. Suggested matches are deep fried calamari, salmon, or trout
2. Biface D’Espagne, Entre-deux-Mers (12%) £13.49
Available from Waitrose
50% Sauvignon Blanc, 50% Semillon. Can be drunk on its own
Suggested Food matches: Naked mussels, oysters, or mild fish pate
3. CLOS FLORIDENE BLANC, GRAVES, 2019 (12.5%) £20
Available from Wine Society
45% Sauvignon Blanc, 55% Semillon. A serious white Bordeaux
Suggested Food matches: Creamy chicken, prawns, fish terrine, risotto, or aperitif snack of gougere (gruyere filled pastry)
4. CHATEAU TURCAUD BORDEAUX CLAIRET 2021, (12.5%) £10.50
Available from Vinatis online
65% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Sauvignon, 15% Cabernet Franc
Very dark red for a rose wine. Divided opinion on the night.
Suggested Food matches: Chargrilled tuna, barbecued food flavours. Very versatile
5. Chateau Maine GAZIN 2019, (12%) £16
Available from House of Townsend
50% Merlot, 20% Cabernet Franc, 20% Petit Verdot
Soft, fruity and smooth. A dark red colour and a persistent and balanced finish.
Suggested Food matches: Hard cheeses or red meat canape
6. FLEUR de PEDESCLAUX, PAILLAC 2014 (13.5%) £33
Available from Soho Wine
89% Merlot, 6% Cabernet Sauvignon, 3% Petit Verdot, 2% Cabernet Franc
Another lovely red wine.
Suggested Food matches: Hard cheeses or red meat canape
7. Chateau CANTEMERLE, HAUT MEDOC, 2005, (13 %) typically £70
Provided by John Harris
52% Cabernet Sauvignon, 35% Merlot, 8% Petit Verdot, 5% Cabernet Franc
Dense purple in colour with an elegant nose of blue fruits, flowers and a subtle minerality, coupled with spicy notes. Full-bodied, with refined tannins and a long, long finish.
Suggested Food matches: Hard cheeses or red meat canape
8. CHATEAU LA RAME, STe CROIX du MONT 2021 (13%), £12.99
Available from Majestic (mixed six price)
75% Semillon, 25% Sauvignon Blanc
A golden hued wine with aromas of ripe stone fruits, candied summer fruits and honey. A clean and fresh finish.
Suggested Food matches: Crème Brulé or blue cheese